When you prepare for your workday, are you gearing up for a long time at your desk in the office? That might actually be counterproductive, research suggests. In fact, scientists are saying to get the most done, you need to make time to give yourself “brain breaks” so you are not entrenched in the same thing all day.

A new article from Bloomberg discusses the idea that diversifying what you give your attention to helps you get more done. Here are some of the methods to fit in those breaks while still being productive:

Start Your Day Exercising

Many people feel sluggish until they’ve had coffee and a shower, but the real difference is movement. Getting your heart rate up first thing will also get your mind alert.

Handle Emails in Chunks

Do you stop whatever you’re doing to check every email notification? This is a progress breaker. Instead, set time to check and respond to your inbox a couple of times per day.

Utilize Your High Energy Time

When do you hit your productive rhythm? Whether you are a morning or evening person, try and structure major projects for when you get that energy spurt.

Relax

Ever struggled with something for hours only to come back the next day and see the solution clearly? Giving your mind a break can help refresh you. Make time for peaceful breaks like meditation.

Try to Keep Tasks Short

If possible, be mindful of your time on tasks like meetings where you control how long they last. Many people’s mental stamina starts to deplete after around a half hour of one focal point.

Walk and Talk

Keep your mind invigorated by changing your environment. Go for a walk while you handle some business calls to switch up your scenery.

Build Connections

Chit-chat is not always a waste of time. Getting to know people on a personal level builds trust and nourishes your need for social connection.

Doing the same thing the same way every day is not sustainable. Find your best brain break to give yourself the mental stimulation you need.

To read more about the benefits of a brain break and to learn about other things you can try, read the article from Bloomberg here.

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Self-made Millennial Madeline Mann offers four suggestions to maximize work-breaks by focusing on 4 key factors.

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